Although you may have been taken into custody and even formally charged
with an ecstasy-related offense, this does not mean that you are out of
options. You may be able to effectively avoid a conviction or even secure
a dismissal of your charges with a Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer
from Martinian & Associates by your side. Our firm has a long history
of representing clients in the greater LA area in the face of state and
federal drug charges.

Commonly known as ecstasy, 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) is
a Schedule I drug according to the Controlled Substances Act (CSA). This
is the most serious classification for a controlled substance, meaning
it has no recognized medical value and has a high potential for abuse.
It is illegal to possess, sell or make ecstasy.

Ecstasy Possession Charges and Penalties Under California Law

California Health and Safety Code § 11377 outlines the definition
of and penalties for personal possession of a controlled substance, such
as ecstasy. Under this law, a person may face misdemeanor or
felony charges for ecstasy possession. Whether a defendant is charged with a misdemeanor
or felony will depend on the circumstances surrounding the case, such
as the defendant's criminal record (if any), the amount of ecstasy
allegedly found in his or her possession and other factors.

When charged as a misdemeanor, a conviction for ecstasy possession may
result in up to one year in county jail and a fine of up to $1,000. If
charged as a felony, a defendant may face up to 16 months, 2 years or
3 years in state prison and a fine of up to $10,000. First offenders may
be eligible for California's
Drug Diversion program, which allows a defendant to undergo treatment in lieu of incarceration.
If a defendant successfully completes the drug treatment program, the
charges may be dismissed.

Possession for Sale or Distribution

When a person is found in possession of a sufficient amount of ecstasy
that it may indicate an intent to sell or distribute the substance, this
may result in felony drug charges under California Health and Safety Code
§ 11378. Penalties may include:

Up to 16 months, 2 years or 3 years in prison

A fine of up to $10,000

Ecstasy Trafficking Defense in Los Angeles

Ecstasy trafficking charges may involve allegations that a person has transported,
distributed, sold and/or manufactured ecstasy. State and federal laws
prohibit these actions, and steep penalties may be imposed if a defendant
is convicted. California Health and Safety Code § 11379 addresses
the transportation and sale of controlled substances, including ecstasy.

These are felony offenses, punishable by up to two, three or four years
in state prison and a fine of up to $10,000. If more than two county lines
are crossed in committing the alleged offense, a defendant may face up
to three, six or nine years in prison.

If state lines are crossed in transporting ecstasy, or large quantities
are involved, the federal government may become involved. The Drug Enforcement
Administration (DEA), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Immigration
and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and other federal agencies may participate
in the investigation and prosecution of ecstasy trafficking in Los Angeles
or anywhere in the U.S. Local, state and federal agencies may work independently
or together to secure convictions against alleged offenders.

Contact a Los Angeles Criminal Lawyer

Facing ecstasy possession, possession for sale or trafficking charges presents
a serious situation for any arrestee or defendant. If your future and
freedom are on the line, make sure you act quickly and exercise your right
to an attorney.

There are various defenses available to drug charges of this kind, and
a legal professional with experience in handling these cases can work
to build a compelling argument on your behalf.
Contact a Los Angeles drug crime attorney today.